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Director, Indigenous Hockey Development

The Indigenous Hockey Development Director plays a vital leadership role in strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and enhancing access to minor hockey programming across the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. This position will focus on outreach, inclusion, and support for Indigenous players, families, and partner organizations.

Reporting to the VP of Development and working collaboratively with the FMMHA Executive & Operations Committes, the Indigenous Hockey Development Director will be responsible for program advocacy, removing barriers to participation, and serving as a trusted liaison between Indigenous communities and Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association (FMMHA).

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Leadership

Communication

Coordination

Support

Compliance

 

 

Estimated Time Commitment: 50-75 hours per Season

Travel Commitment:  None

Skills and Qualities

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Cultural Awareness & Respect – A deep understanding of Indigenous history, traditions, and values, with a commitment to building authentic and respectful relationships.

Strong Communication – Ability to engage multiple stakeholders and hold space for meaningful, diplomatic conversations.

Leadership & Advocacy – Confident in guiding inclusive practices and supporting families through access and development pathways.

Organizational Strength – Capable of managing outreach efforts, planning initiatives, and coordinating programs across diverse and rural communities.

Collaborative Approach – Works effectively with the FMMHA Executive, Indigenous leadership, Hockey Alberta, and partner organizations.

Key Responsibilities & Focus Areas:

      • Serve as the primary point of contact between FMMHA and Indigenous partners, including:

        • Wood Buffalo Native Hockey Executive Board

        • Fort McKay Native Hockey

        • Hockey Alberta Indigenous Initiatives

        • Native Provincials

      • Foster respectful and consistent relationships with rural communities within the municipality, including Fort Chipewyan, Anzac, Fort McKay, Janvier, and Conklin.

      • Ensure Indigenous voices are represented in FMMHA planning, events, and programming decisions.

      Access & Inclusion

      • Collaborate with the FMMHA Executive to remove barriers to participation, such as:

        • Financial limitations

        • Travel logistics

        • Equipment access

        • Tryout accommodations

      • Identify and support pathways for Indigenous athletes—particularly from Fort Chipewyan, Janvier, and Conklin—to participate in Fort McMurray-based minor hockey programs.

      Program Development

      • Work with Development Directors to create inclusive skills camps, mentorship programs, and outreach events in partnership with Indigenous communities (e.g., Anzac Hockey).

      • Advocate for the development of Indigenous-specific training and education opportunities, including:

        • Coaching clinics

        • Officiating pathways

        • Leadership workshops

      Communication & Advocacy

      • Maintain open and regular communication with Indigenous families to foster a welcoming, culturally safe experience across all FMMHA programs.

      • Promote Indigenous representation in volunteer, coaching, and officiating roles.

      • Champion the integration of Truth and Reconciliation principles into the association’s culture and operations.